Home Selling Tips

There are six key components of marketing and selling a home. Keith Wilkey provides expertise and guidance throughout the process, helping you achieve your real estate goals.

1. ASKING PRICE
The asking price is generally the number one consideration when beginning a home search. Depending upon market conditions, it is the starting point from which to negotiate the actual price of a home. The actual market value is determined by what a buyer is willing to pay.

2. PROPERTY LOCATION
The second most important factor in the buyer’s mind is location. The proximity to area amenities and schools is typically a concern. In addition, street traffic, access to expressways and public transportation are considerations.

3. PROPERTY CONDITION
The structural and mechanical integrity, as well as the upkeep and cosmetic appeal of a property affect a home price. Neutral décor, including floor and wall coverings, appliances and fixtures, offers the broadest appeal to buyers.

4. MARKET CONDITIONS
Interest rates, competition from other properties, the economy and consumer confidence all influence the sale of a home. Each of these factors plays an important role in the ultimate purchase price of a home. An offer to purchase must be tailored in response to market conditions.

5. CONTRACT TERMS
The terms of a purchase can make or break the contract. House sale contingencies, closing dates, and inclusion of accessories or fixtures should be handled clearly and up front in order to avoid any confusion that could affect the purchase and/or closing.

6. MARKETING
When advertising exposure and positioning are done correctly, your home will sell more quickly and will command a higher price. Pay close attention to how your home is showcased in an advertisement, the publications in which it appears, and the frequency with which the advertisement appears. Aggressive Internet exposure is also essential.

Why First Impressions Are Important
We have developed a short list of how to prepare your house for sale to help generate results. Remember, buyers are looking to be impressed!

THE APPROACH
The first few seconds of a showing can literally make or break a sale. Make certain that the first things to come into view are neat and attractive.

THE ENTRY
The front entry area and front door should be warm and inviting. The area should be swept clean and the door in good repair (painted, if necessary). A seasonally decorative touch can set the proper inviting tone.

THE VIEW
Windows should be sparkling clean in order to maximize the light entering the home and to provide an inviting scene from the exterior. Keep curtains and drapes open whenever possible to achieve a bright, open effect.

THE SURROUNDINGS
Spruce up, paint up, and touch up. Faded or worn paint or paper on the walls and ceilings can create a drab effect throughout the interior and will leave an impression in the buyer’s mind that is hard to erase.

THE FURNISHINGS
A cluttered look makes every room seem smaller than it really is. Remove extra furnishings wherever possible to give your home a clean, simple appearance. Remember, the buyer is trying to visualize how their furniture will fit in the home. Make it as easy as possible.

STORAGE
One of the first things a typical buyer looks for is adequate closet and storage space. Maximize the size of your closets by removing excess items and neatly arranging those items that remain.

BATHROOMS AND KITCHEN
These areas should be clean and spotless. No matter how relaxed buyers may be in their present home, they will invariably downgrade the desirability of a home if the kitchen and baths are less than spotless. Make sure everything shines!

FIX THE LITTLE THINGS
Loose door knobs, doors that don’t close all the way, screens off the track and cracked window panes are all a part of everyday life except when you’re selling your house. Little things undone can suggest neglect to a fussy buyer. For top dollar, it’s smart to fix these items.

SHED LIGHT ON DARK AREAS
Whenever possible, make sure the lights are turned on in areas of the house that appear dark.